dower

Short definition from Wiktionary

Noun

1. 1
   The part of or interest in a deceased husband's property provided to his widow, usually in the form of a life estate.
2. 2
   Property given by a groom to his bride or her family, at or before their wedding, in order to legitimize the marriage
3. 3
   That with which one is gifted or endowed; endowment; gift.
4. 4
   Alternative spelling of dougher.

Verb

1. 1
   To give a dower or dowry to.
2. 2
   To endow.

Proper noun

1. 1
   A surname.